San Francisco, 1974The Shanti project is created, aimed at providing free counseling to people with life-threatening illnesses. By the 1980s it becomes an invaluable resource for those living with AIDS.

California, 1975Television station KNTV in San Jose airs the first condom commercial in broadcast history. The ad is shelved soon after its first airing due to initial viewer response, then revived as a majority of households approve the spot.

United States, 1975In July, NASA closes down the Apollo program and its "throw away" spacecraft in favor of the space shuttle project. The 17th launch of an Apollo ship in July marks the end of an unforgettable era in space exploration.